A Memorial Day ceremony to honor U.S. armed forces veterans who died in service to the country is scheduled for 10 a.m., May 25 at Monument Cemetery.

About 100 people are expected to attend this free event. Trumpeter Matt Silva, 17, a junior at Palmer Ridge High School, will play the bugle call, taps, at the conclusion of the ceremony.

Silva, who plans to pursue an aerospace engineering degree following graduation, said he was honored at being asked to perform the haunting melody at this time-honored event.

“I was honored to be asked to play,” Silva said. “Memorial Day is a serious event in which you want to give your best performance.”

This federal holiday holds special significance in southern Colorado with El Paso County hosting U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Army Fort Carson, Peterson and Schriever Space Force Bases. The U.S. flag will be flown at half-staff until noon. Many Americans pause for one minute of silence at 3 p.m. local time to honor fallen heroes.

Portia Hermann. executive administrative assistant for the Town of Monument, said the community benefits from this day of remembrance as it fosters national unity, promotes reflection on American history and honors the ultimate sacrifices armed services personnel made for freedom.

Also, the event supports veterans, strengthens social bonds and educates younger generations about military service. This helps ensure that the legacy of fallen service members is not forgotten.

“It’s lovely to see veterans and community come together in this peaceful recognition,” Hermann said.

This year’s Memorial Day holds heightened significance for Americans because it falls during a major military conflict between the U.S. and Iran that started on Feb. 28.

Communities honor fallen troops on Memorial Day by attending local parades and ceremonies, visiting cemeteries to place flags or flowers on graves, and observing the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. local time. Other meaningful acts include wearing red poppies, supporting veterans’ organizations, and educating others on the holiday’s history.

Community activities and events include attending ceremonies and parades and participating in town-organized parades, services, and ceremonies to honor the fallen. Many of these are often held at cemeteries or veterans’ monuments.

Some people spend time at local or national monuments to learn about/honor those who died in battle. Others place American flags on soldiers’ graves.

To learn more, call the Town of Monument at 719-481-2954. Direct general event inquiries to the town’s events team at events@tomgov.org.